A man who has been left paralysed after being crushed by collapsed scaffolding has travelled over 1,000 miles across the UK – using only his wheelchair.
Peter Smorthit lost the use of his legs after plummeting 20ft in the horror workplace accident.
Navigating this new way of life was tough at first – with him too afraid to leave his home – and he believed his sporting days had come to an end.
But as he’d been given a second chance at life, the now 32-year-old became determined not to give up.
And now, he’s travelled over 1,000 miles, from one end of the UK to the other, using only his wheelchair.
“I knew this would be my biggest challenge yet,” the disability sports coach, from London, told What’s The Jam.
“It was on my bucket list and it hadn’t been done before in an everyday non-racing wheelchair.
“I’ve always been quite stubborn and determined, even long before I became disabled, and I definitely think that has got me to where I am today.
“I know a lot of able bodied people still have preconceived ideas of what they think a disabled person can or can’t do – and it’s not really a one size fits all scenario.
“No two disabled people are the same and the only person who knows their limitations are themselves.
“I hope by pushing the boundaries of what is possible from a wheelchair can help to change people’s perceptions – and maybe even inspire a few, too.”
Peter, who suffered the accident in January 2011, used to be very active; taking part in running events and charity bike rides – including LEJOG, a cycle ride from Land’s End to John o’Groats.
Since his accident, where he was placed into a medically-induced coma for eight weeks, he’s also battled sepsis, as well as three strokes.
But he refuses to let his health define him.
On 12 June 2024, he started his sixth journey from Land’s End, Cornwall, to John o’Groats, Scotland.
He took only himself, his wheelchair and a trailer; including camping gear, a tent, spare parts, basic food supplies, toiletries and a few outfit changes.
Averaging up to 35 miles a day, he ended up completing the trip in 34 days, travelling over 1,041 miles in total.
He said: “I had originally estimated 30 days to complete the challenge, but with the dreadful weather holding me back a fair bit, I did well.
“Notable stops on route was definitely the first day travelling towards Truro from Land’s End – brought back a few nostalgic memories.
“Getting through Redruth and St Austell, taking on those hills, was a challenge in itself, but what made that trickier was the non-stop torrential rain.
“The journey to Shap going through Cumbria and taking on one of the steepest climbs felt like hell on earth.
“I had to zig zag side-to-side just to stay upright; but was so happy once I got to the top – made it all worth it.
“The reactions and support I got from complete strangers along the route was just brilliant and I was taken aback with the amount I got.
“People were beeping their horns, with a big thumbs up as they went past, and came out to offer me tea and cake, too.”
Since his accident, he’s done 210 marathons, 153 ultramarathons, 180 half marathons, 30 triathlons, three Tough Mudders and has raised over £3m for different charities.
For this challenge, he raised £12,000 for Canine Partners, a charity that partners disabled people with assistance dogs.
To celebrate his incredible achievement, he headed straight to the nearest pub.
Peter added: “I see these mad challenges as a great opportunity to support so many unsung heroes and small charities, who don’t often get the recognition they deserve.
“It was one hell of a journey, but coming over the horizon and with the finish line in sight made it all worth it.
“I’m so happy I managed to defy the odds and made my dream a reality.
“I’ve met some brilliant people throughout this journey and have definitely made a few friends for life, too.
“Never give up on your dreams – living life from a wheelchair doesn’t define who you are.
“When there’s a will, there’s always a way.
“I think the thought of me still being alive is what has kept me going.
“Knowing that has been an achievement in itself, as it could so easily have turned out differently.
“Life is so precious and I’ve been given another chance; so I’m sure going to make the most of it.”
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